Trimetazidine is used together with other medicines to help relieve symptoms of stable angina pectoris (chest pain which occurs when the heart does not receive enough blood and oxygen). This medicine is used for those who are inadequately controlled by or intolerant to the first-line treatments of angina.
Take Trimetazidine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it together with food or immediately after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This medicine is available as a conventional tablet, modified-release tablet, or prolonged-release capsule.
If you are taking the conventional tablet, swallow it whole with a glass of water.
If you are taking the modified-release tablet (usually labelled as "MR") or prolonged-release capsule (usually labelled as "XR"), swallow it whole. Do not divide, chew or crush the tablet or capsule.
Trimetazidine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- Parkinson's disease (a disorder that affects the movement of a person, causing symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement, and impaired balance or walking)
- restless legs syndrome (a nerve disorder that causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs due to an uncomfortable sensation)
- tremors (involuntary shaking of the hands or legs)
- severe kidney disease
as Trimetazidine may not be suitable for you.
Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with this medicine.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- closed-angle glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
- mild to moderate kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Trimetazidine to the elderly. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Routine tests (e.g. kidney function) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Trimetazidine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: stomach pain, diarrhoea, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, headache, weakness or lack of energy, skin rash and itching.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- trouble controlling body movements
- muscle stiffness
- involuntary shaking of the hands or legs
- change in balance
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.